Former Louisiana Mayor Arrested for Alleged Sex with Minor

DeRidder, Louisiana

Misty Roberts, the ex-mayor of DeRidder, Louisiana, who surrendered her position a few days ago, was apprehended on Thursday over allegations of sexual relations with a minor, according to law enforcement.

Charges Levied

The 42-year-old was incarcerated in the Beauregard Parish Detention Center on counts of third-degree rape and contributing to the delinquency of juveniles, as informed by Louisiana State Police. The investigation, initiated on request by the Beauregard Parish Sheriff’s office, relates to allegations of sexual assault involving a juvenile.

During the investigation, the Special Victim’s Unit conducted interviews with two minors, one of whom was the reputed victim. The findings confirmed allegations of Roberts allegedly engaging in sexual intercourse with one juvenile while she was in office.

Proclamation of Innocence

Robert Johnson, the legal representative of Roberts, declared her innocence. “My client was informed late at night about the warrant, despite not being reached out for an interview before the warrant was secured,” Johnson stated. “My client maintains her innocence, and as it stands, she is actually innocent. She has not been formally indicted of a crime or found guilty of any crime.”

Resignation from Office

Roberts initially communicated her intention to withdraw from the office for a span of two weeks on Friday; nevertheless, her resignation was submitted the following day. She stated her deep-rooted love and enthusiasm for DeRidder and the satisfaction she derived from her 15-year tenure as the Mayor.

Roberts willingly turned herself over to the authorities without any incident on Thursday, as per the police reports. She was apprehended at around 10:13 a.m. and was discharged around 11:30 a.m. after posting a bond of $75,000.

Background

As per the City’s website, Roberts graduated from DeRidder High School in the year 2000 and earned a Bachelor of Science degree in mass communications, emphasizing public relations, from McNeese State University in 2004. Prior to her tenure as Mayor, she held the position of the city’s director of community service for nine years. The city of DeRidder boasts a population of about 10,000 and lies approximately 50 miles north of Lake Charles, Louisiana, near the Texas border.